Dog hot spots are known by many names including pyoderma, dermatitis etc. No matter what you call them, they can be extremely annoying and painful to your pet. Today we will study what you can put on your dog’s hot spots to cure them quickly.
What are hot spots?
Dog hot spots can occur overnight and they can drive your pet crazy. You will see him scratching all the time and it will make him miserable. Hot spots can be identified as red spots on the tummy, face, neck and the paws.He might scratch, bite, chew or lick these areas at any time of the day or night. Hot spots mainly occur due to tick or flea bites, contact dermatitis etc. Poor grooming habits, boredom, allergies and other factors can also lead to excess biting, chewing and licking in pets. Leaving the pet wet after bathing, swimming or playing in the rain could also lead to such reactions.
What to do for dog hot spots?
Wear a pair of sterile gloves and examine pet’s skin. If your dog appears to be in pain, or if his skin is red, bleeding or has developed pus, then do consult a vet. If you feel that the condition is mild you can use some home remedies for it. In case there is a lot of hair/fur, trim it a bit. This will help you access the skin so you can treat it with hot spot home remedies:
Homemade dog hot spot treatment with peroxide
Use this homemade dog hot spot spray to prevent infections.
- 1-2 oz hydrogen peroxide
- 1 tbsp rubbing alcohol or isopropyl alcohol
- Drinking water
- Antiseptic wash
- Witch hazel (optional)
- Empty spray bottles
Clean your pet’s hot spots with antiseptic wash. Next, mix the rubbing alcohol, peroxide, and witch hazel and stir well to combine. Add water when you are ready to use it. Pour the mixture into an empty spray bottle. Spray your pet’s hot spots with it. Use very little of this solution since it contains alcohol which can sting. Make sure you dilute this solution with fresh water before use.
Peroxide
This is a popular dog hotspot treatment peroxide. Take a 50/50 mixture of peroxide and warm water. Add it to a spray bottle and spray all over the skin to stop itchiness.
Coconut oil
Coconut oil is antibacterial, antifungal and antiseptic. Apply the oil directly on the spots to soothe the skin and heal it quickly. You can also administer the oil internally to your pet to strengthen his defense system and immunity to fight allergens and prevent hotspots. Always use extra virgin coconut oil for this remedy.
Apple cider vinegar
Organic, raw and unfiltered apple cider vinegar is a great remedy for dog hotspots. It soothes inflammation and speeds up the healing process. The anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and anti microbial properties also prevent secondary infections and prevent itchiness. Dip a clean cloth in a solution of warm water and apple cider vinegar. Press the cloth on the pet’s skin. Repeat 2-3 times a day or as needed.
Hydrocortisone cream
Apply a thick layer of 1% hydrocortisone cream on the spots to prevent itchiness. This remedy will give your pet instant relief from itching. However, you must discontinue use of this cream after 2 days since overuse of such steroidal cream can be harmful to your pet.
Benadryl
If your pet is unable to sleep due to the constant itchiness, you can give him a bit of Benadryl to stop the itch. This will enable him to sleep. Again, you must discontinue use of this medicine after 2 days. Talk to your vet if this hot spot remedy is right for your dog.
Neosporin
Ointments like Neosporin or Bacitracin can help prevent itchiness and bacterial infections. Wrap the skin with gauze especially if the hot spot is at the paws area. To ensure that your pet won’t lick the gauze, spray some bitter apple or vinegar solution or other bitter tasting spray on the bandage. You can also place an Elizabeth collar in order to prevent chewing and licking.
Dog hot spots are not contagious but they can be extremely annoying to your pet. Feed him a healthy diet and make sure he gets a fish oil supplement. Try the above home remedies to soothe the itch and pain. Do consult a vet immediately if the situation worsens.
